Swimming's Robert Bickford Inducted Into Sophomore Owls
4/20/2011 12:00:00 AM | Men's Swimming and Diving
ORONO, Maine -- It has been announced that swimming's Robert Bickford (Old Town, Maine) has been inducted into the Sophomore Owls Honor Society. Bickford, a biochemistry major and accomplished Eagle Scout, was inducted into the prestigious honor society on Sunday, April 17.
The Sophomore Owls, a men's organization, was founded in 1909 at the University for the purpose of "instilling Maine spirit in the two lower classes and promoting harmony between them, and to interest preparatory school athletes toward entering the University of Maine and to aid them whenever possible." The Senior Skulls started the Sophomore Owls in 1909 to help incoming freshman adjust to the University.
"Robbie had an outstanding year in and out of the pool," commented head coach Susan Lizzotte. "He works extremely hard, is a leader, role model and is very deserving of this induction. We are proud of Robbie and are looking forward to his next three years."
Bickford competes in the freestyle events for the Black Bear swim team. Some of his fastest times this year came when he completed the 50 yard freestyle on Jan. 22 against Bowdoin in 23.49 and on the same day when he finished the 100 yard freestyle at 50.89. Bickford swam the 200 yard freestyle on Dec. 11 against Bates with a time of 1:50.60 and touched the wall at 5:00.12, his quickest time of the year, in the 500 yard freestyle against Providence on Jan. 15.
Bickford also had a solid showing at this year's America East Championships. He placed 12th in the 1650 yard freestyle event with a time of 10:29.42 and was 14th overall in the 200 yard freestyle at 1:45.55.
The Sophomore Owls Society is one of the four all-inclusive honor societies at the University of Maine that have come to represent the top 1% of their respective classes. The Owls take pride in the rich tradition here at the University of Maine and serve to give back to the University with events such as the Haunted Trail, and Battle of the Bands. The Society works closely with the students, administration, the Senior Skull Society and the President of the University.
Selection to the society is based on a variety of strong skills including leadership, community involvement, character, academics and commitment to the University of Maine.
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